This young man's name is Michael Ross Nugent. Many of you may remember him as the 2012 Chautauqua Lake Voices winner. He is now a 26 year old professional vocalist and entertainer. Michael grew up in Lancaster NY, a suburb of Buffalo. He is the first person I have chosen to be featured on this blog about the Pops through the years. His heartfelt thoughts are below for all of you. Thank you, Michael.
Music has always been a major part of my life for I have played trombone since I was 9 years old. After graduating from high school I decided to take vocal lessons to explore what my voice could do. I had no idea that singing would become my profession and I am fortunate to say that I have been performing full-time since 2014. I moved to Las Vegas in 2019 to continue my career after 5 years of performing in Western New York State.
Chautauqua Lake has a special place in my heart for many reasons. My father's side of the family lives in Chautauqua County so it's like my second home. I spent countless summers on my uncle's boat, many Fall seasons staying at Chautauqua Institution with my grandparents and celebrating numerous holidays. The Fourth of July weekend was always something I looked forward to in Bemus Point. My family and I really enjoyed the Bemus Bay Pops and attended many concerts on the lawn of the Italian Fisherman.
I was very fortunate to be part of the 2012 (WWSE 93.3 FM) SE93 Chautauqua Lake Voices singing competition. My uncle who lives in Jamestown called me in the Spring of 2012 to tell me about the contest since he had heard the advertisement on local radio. Along with 19 other contestants I was given the chance to perform on the floating stage that summer for the patrons of the Bemus Bay Pops. I will never forget how exhilarating it was to sing for the large crowd with beautiful Bemus Bay in the background.
I was competing against a group of singers with incredible talent with many fans showing up each week to cheer on their favorite contestant. The competition lasted several weeks and I was blessed to eventually be announced the winner that summer. At the Labor Day finale concert I was honored to sing Feelin' Good by Michael Buble with the Chautauqua Lake Pops Symphony Orchestra. It was truly a magical night.
My singing career began on that unique floating stage in Bemus Point, a very special and quaint lake village. I will never forget that experience!
Community and music are so important to the people of Chautauqua County whether it be at the Pops, now relocated in Mayville NY since 2019 or throughout the many music venues in the County.
The Bemus Bay Pops provided an amazing opportunity for me in 2013 and I am forever thankful. The Pops brings everyone of all ages together for fun and music.
Michael Ross Nugent
716-713-4366
michaelrossnugent@gmail.com
www.michaelrossnugent.com
Facebook: Michael Ross Nugent
Instagram: michael_ross_nugent
YouTube: Michael Nugent
Be safe.
Pat Locke
Maestro Muse
